Outstanding Eats at Washington Prime in Norwalk, CT!

Norwalk CT is one of those areas I would pass on the highway while heading up to college in RI, but never actually visited. It wasn’t until recently I even knew how awesome their restaurant and bar scene was! I decided to spend the day, out of the city exploring Norwalk and all the deliciousness it has to offer. It’s a simple trip and a one hour train ride from Grand Central Station which is very easy for us New Yorkers. This trip was a really fun afternoon and evening visiting three of the best spots on the Main Strip in Norwalk where you will find back to back restaurants and bars. It’s a walkable restaurant row that’s absolutely a must visit.

We started off at Washington Prime, which is a chic spot serving steak house favorites as well as elevated dishes. Here you will find some classics like Wedge Salad, Shrimp and Oysters, Thick Slab Bacon, and Steaks. On the other hand, you will also find amazing appetizers and options such as the Prime Steak Tartare with diced prime beef, shallots, parsley, parmesan, truffle vinaigrette, and quail egg on the side. This appetizer was featured on the Food Network and is incredible! It’s honestly one of the best steak tartare’s I have ever had because it’s perfectly seasoned and great for sharing. While here, I recommend some other appetizers as well and encourage you to try the Deviled Eggs with prime meatball, pickled onions, foie gras powder, as well as the Crispy Masa Oysters,which are lightly fried with masa and topped with chipotle créma and pico de gallo.

Here on weekends they offer a great brunch and live music as well, and this particular Sunday I visited they had a great guitarist and fun crowd. We started off with cocktails, before diving into their great wine list. The No. 99 Cocktail is great for those who love bourbon, citrus, and a touch of sweetness. I also went with something sweeter, but not overly sweet, called Figgin’ Delicious which has a merlot float. I really enjoyed both cocktails, but the fig one really stole my heart!

Because it was a day of wining and dining in Norwalk, and we already devoured three appetizers, we decided to share a steak and some wine. The 8oz Filet Mignon is a great size steak for those who are enjoying it to themselves as well as sharing. It’s a delicious 21-day wet aged steak, that can be topped with bone marrow (that’s what we did), and is accompanied by one of their famous sauces. The filet was perfectly cooked and paired beautifully with the Rodney Strong Symmetry Red Blend. It’s a nice portion of meat and when topped with bone marrow and rosemary, it just makes it that much better. Alongside the filet was a Triple Baked Loaded Potato and Brussels Sprouts, which were a great addition to the meal, and also delicious.

Here the ambiance is inviting and sexy, with nice greenery, dark wood tables, a wrap around bar, and some private booth seating. The staff here I found was all fantastic and if you’re looking for a wonderful wine bar with outstanding food and great service, absolutely check out Washington Prime! It’s a quick trip from the city, and Norwalk makes for a great day trip!